Practice Questions
for the TOEFL® Writing
Sample questions and real student answers designed to help you improve.
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Example #1
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
You recently bought a printer from an online electronics store, and it worked well for the first few days. However, it began showing persistent errors and now refuses to print even basic documents. You want to contact customer service to explain the situation.
Write an email to customer service. In your email, do the following:
- Describe the problem you are having with the printer.
- Explain what you have already tried to fix it.
- Ask about repair or replacement options.
Write as much as you can and in complete sentences.
Your Response:
To: Customer Service
Subject: Request for printer repair or replacement-
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Sample Responses
Hello,
Two weeks ago, I purchased a printer from your online store, but after a few days, it stopped working. Whenever I attempt to print a document, it displays an error message that I don’t understand. This occurs even when I try to print very basic documents. I have already tried resetting the printer, checking for software updates on your website, and switching the ink cartridge.
Since I am unable to solve the problem on my own, could you tell me whether it is possible to have the printer replaced? If that is possible, please let me know how I should apply for a replacement. Of course, I would also be happy to have the printer repaired by one of your technicians.
Thank you,
Alberto Beardsley
Example #2
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
You recently moved into a new apartment and discovered several maintenance issues that were not mentioned in the lease. You want to contact your landlord, Mr. Hill, to report these problems and request repairs as soon as possible. Write an email to Mr. Hill.
In your email, do the following:
- Describe the maintenance issues you have noticed
- Explain how they are affecting your daily life
- Request that they be repaired soon
Write as much as you can and in complete sentences.
Suggested word count: 100-150 words
To: Mr. Hill
Subject: Request for apartment maintenance repairs
Space for typing answers. On test day, you will have 7 minutes to read and write.
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Sample Responses
Dear Mr. Hill,
As you know, I moved into your apartment on Highwood Street last week. I’m writing to mention a few maintenance issues that I’ve noticed since then.
First of all, the faucet in the bathroom sink has a steady leak that I cannot stop. I can hear this leak during the night, and it is interrupting my sleep. I’m also worried about wasting water.
Moreover, the doorbell on the front door does not work. This makes it difficult to receive packages from delivery drivers, since they have no way of letting me know that they have arrived. Would it be possible for you to arrange repairs for both of these issues right away? I will be at home all week, so I can easily let you in no matter when you arrive to take care of them.
Thanks for your time,
Zorica Hedlund
Example #3
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
Your class is organizing a charity event next month to raise money for local families in need. You volunteered to contact businesses that might want to donate food or supplies. You decide to write to the manager of a local supermarket to ask if they would be interested in supporting your event. Write an email to the store manager.
In your email, do the following:
- Introduce yourself and explain the purpose of the event
- Describe how the store’s donation would help
- Invite them to participate and provide contact details for follow-up
Write as much as you can and in complete sentences.
Suggested word count: 100-150 words
To: Drew Houghton
Subject: Request for support with charity event
Space for typing answers. On test day, you will have 7 minutes to read and write.
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Sample Responses
Dear Mr. Houghton,
My name is Caleb Fox, and I am a student at Garden State University. Next month, the university will begin its annual campaign to collect donations of money and supplies to help local families get through the winter season. I’m writing to ask if your supermarket would be willing to donate some non-perishable food items or other essential goods to the campaign.
A contribution from your store would help ensure that families in our area can enjoy healthy and nutritious meals. If you are interested, you can reply to this email or reach out to me by phone at 902-555-3267. All donors will have their names and logos displayed on the campaign’s website and on materials distributed at our in-person events.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Caleb Fox
Example #4
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
You recently took an online course about digital marketing, but some of the video materials did not load properly. You want to contact the course coordinator, Dr. Lin, to report these issues and ask for guidance. Write an email to Dr. Lin.
In your email, do the following:
- Describe the technical problems you experienced
- Explain how these problems affected your learning
- Ask how you can complete this part of the course
Write as much as you can and in complete sentences.
Suggested word count: 100-150 words
To: Dr. Lin
Subject: Issues with online course materials
Space for typing answers. On test day, you will have 7 minutes to read and write.
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Sample Responses
Dear Dr. Lin,
I’m writing to let you know about a technical problem I recently experienced while studying for your “Introduction to Geology” online course. Last week, some of the videos about plate tectonics that you assigned would not load properly.
I was only able to watch the first five seconds of each video, and after that, they would not continue to play. As a result, I am unable to fully comprehend the lecture you gave, and I’m worried that my final grade will be impacted. Could you let me know if there is another method to access the videos? Once I watch them all, I am sure I will fully understand the topic.
Thanks for your time,
Talia Brunner
Example #5
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
You are a member of the student environmental club at your university. The club is planning to meet on Monday to discuss a campus cleanup event, but you have a scheduling conflict and will not be able to attend the meeting. You want to write to the club leader, Sarah, to suggest an alternative date and share your availability. Write an email to Sarah.
In your email, do the following:
- Explain your scheduling conflict
- Suggest a new date or time for the meeting
- Offer to help with planning in another way if needed
Write as much as you can and in complete sentences.
Suggested word count: 100-150 words
To: Sarah
Subject: Suggestion for rescheduling the cleanup event
Space for typing answers. On test day, you will have 7 minutes to read and write.
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Sample Responses
Hello Sarah,
As you know, I’m really looking forward to the campus cleanup next month. However, I will not be able to attend the planning session on Monday due to a scheduling conflict. Unfortunately, I must attend a study session for my global history class, which cannot be rescheduled.
If you think my participation in the planning session is essential, I will be happy to attend on Tuesday evening, anytime after six o’clock. If that’s not possible, I would be happy to help in some other way. For instance, if you need me to update the club website with new information about the event, I would be happy to do so. Moreover, I can contact the campus radio station about making a few announcements about the event.
Best wishes,
Jennet
WRITE FOR AN ACADEMIC DISCUSSION
Example #1
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
Your professor is teaching a class on sociology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response, you should do the following.
- Express and support your opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Dr. Stingley
Today, we will look at the trend of temporarily stepping away from digital devices to reduce stress and improve personal interactions. As technology becomes increasingly pervasive, some argue that disconnecting can help regain focus and enhance productivity. Others believe that with proper self-regulation, technology does not have to be overwhelming. What are your thoughts on taking temporary breaks from technology? Do you believe it is beneficial?
Lucas
I think taking a break from technology is really beneficial. In my experience, taking breaks from my phone and computer has helped me concentrate better on my studies and feel less stressed overall. It’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of constant connectivity, and breaking that cycle can provide a much-needed mental rest.
Maya
I believe that instead of completely disconnecting, we should focus on managing our use of technology better. Many people rely on digital tools for work and staying in touch with family, so learning to use technology responsibly might be more realistic than not using it at all.
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Example #2
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response, you should do the following.
- Express and support your opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Dr. Carter
Today, we will look at the evolving landscape of higher education, particularly how online learning platforms are influencing traditional college experiences. Given the current global increase in virtual classrooms, it’s essential to consider their impact on learning outcomes and student engagement. Do you think that online learning will eventually replace in-person education at universities? Explain why you think so.
Alice
In my view, online learning offers a viable alternative to traditional education, especially for those who require flexibility due to work or personal commitments. The ability to access resources at any time and manage one’s schedule can significantly enhance learning efficiency and accessibility. In time, I think that even more schools will offer online classes.
Ben
Though there are some benefits of online learning, I believe it lacks critical aspects of in-person experiences, such as spontaneous classroom interactions and direct peer collaboration. These elements are crucial for developing soft skills and a deeper understanding of academic material. I think that students who learn via online platforms miss out on this part of the academic experience.
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Example #3
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
Your professor is teaching a class on business. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response, you should do the following.
- Express and support your opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Dr. James
Next, we’ll be discussing the future of automation and its impact on the workforce. As industries integrate more advanced technologies, there are concerns about job displacement and the transformation of work. For example, automation may replace some jobs but could also create opportunities in technology and engineering fields. Given these changes, do you believe that automation will ultimately benefit or harm workers? Explain why you think so.
Juan
I believe automation will benefit the workforce by enhancing efficiency and creating high-skilled jobs in sectors like AI and robotics. This shift could lead to increased job satisfaction as people engage in more creative and less monotonous work, fundamentally improving our quality of life.
Allison
While Juan makes a valid point about job creation in certain sectors, I’m concerned about the widespread job losses among less skilled people. Not everyone can transition into high-tech roles, so automation could widen the gap between the wealthy and the poor. Therefore, I think the harms could outweigh the benefits, especially in the short to medium term.
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Example #4
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
Your professor is teaching a class on psychology. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response, you should do the following.
- Express and support your opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Dr. Norton
Today, we will look at the impact of social media on society. Social media platforms have become central to many of our lives, influencing everything from daily communication to global politics. However, while some celebrate the increased connectivity, others are concerned about issues like privacy, mental health, and misinformation. What do you think? Do you believe the impact of social media on society is predominantly positive or negative? Explain why you think so.
Alice
I believe the impact of social media is largely positive. It allows people to stay connected with friends and family regardless of distance, which is invaluable. It also provides platforms for small businesses to thrive by reaching a broader audience without the costs associated with traditional advertising.
Ben
When it comes to social media, I think the negatives outweigh the positives. Social media often promotes unrealistic expectations and can lead to issues like anxiety and depression. Moreover, it’s a breeding ground for misinformation, which can have serious societal implications.
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Example #5
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Part 1: Question 1 of 1Question 0 of 1
0. Question
Your professor is teaching a class on education. Write a post responding to the professor’s question.
In your response, you should do the following.
- Express and support your opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Dr. Langston
This week, we’ll be discussing the impact of music on cognitive development. Research has shown that engaging with music, whether by playing an instrument or listening, can enhance cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and even language skills. For instance, children who receive musical training often show greater improvements in these areas compared to those who do not. Before our next class, I want you to respond to the following question: Do you believe schools should integrate more music-focused classes into their curriculum? Why or why not?
Alice
I strongly support integrating more music classes in schools. Music not only improves cognitive abilities but also nurtures emotional and social skills. Providing children with music education from an early age can foster well-rounded development, equipping them with skills beneficial across various aspects of life.
Ben
It is important to consider the fact that schools have difficulty allocating their limited resources. Many schools struggle with funding and may need to prioritize core academic subjects like math and science. Allocating more resources to music might mean less for these essential areas, which could be detrimental in the long run.
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Sample Responses
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